Clarity

Term used to describe the relative presence or absence of inclusions in a diamond. Most diamonds, when formed, contain imperfections of one kind or another. Clarity, sometimes called purity, is one of the four c’s of diamond grading that determines the overall diamond quality and value.

CIBJO

The World Jewellery Confederation, an international confederation of national jewellery trade organizations. CIBJO’s purpose is to encourage harmonisation, promote international cooperation in the jewellery industry, and to consider issues that concern the trade worldwide. Foremost among these is to protect consumer confidence in the industry.

Chip

Type of inclusion that appears as a slight break out of the edge of a diamond, larger than a nick. Chips are caused when a diamond receives a sharp knock or blow; they affect both the polish and clarity grade of a diamond.

Certificate

A complete, accurate report describing the specific characteristics of a diamond, issued by a recognised and independent diamond grading laboratory.  A diamond certificate lists all the characteristics of a diamond that allows you to determine its current appraisal and fair market value. Also called a Diamond Grading Report. A diamond certificate is not an appraisal and does not contain a monetary value. Click here for a guide to the information that a diamond certificate must have.

Cavity

Type of diamond inclusion that appears as an opening or large indentation on the surface of a diamond. A tiny version of a cavity is a called a pit. Cavities affect both the clarity grade and the polish grade of a diamond.

Carbon Spots

Small black graphite inclusions in a diamond. Diamonds are made of pure carbon that has been subjected to and crystallised under enormous heat and pressure. At times, not all of the carbon crystalises, and small black spots may remain.

Carbon

Diamonds are made of pure carbon that has been subjected to and crystallised under enormous heat and pressure. Without the pressure, graphite is formed instead of diamond. Other forms of carbon can be found in substances like coal, but these are impure forms of carbon.